Student Ministry: Joshua 23: Moving Forward

Joshua 23: Moving Forward

Introduction

College decision: how would I move forward? I knew I wasn’t walking in the will of God - but the pull of fraternity friendships was so alluring. =

You are going to move forward in life, but how are you going to move forward? Are you going to move forward walking in the will of God, or are you going to move forward rejecting the will of God?

I want you to move forward walking in the will of God. How do you move forward well? Three ways:

Look back and see what God has done.

Joshua is an old man. He has led Israel well.

God has fought for His people, and God will continue to fight for His people.

Joshua reminding the people of their incredible story.

What’s your story? You need to constantly remember who you are in Jesus, and what He’s done for you. Because of His death and resurrection, you have been made alive. You are a new creation (2 Corinthians 5:21). Your story is NOT student ministry, grew up going to church, etc. It’s a story of death to life.

Who’s helping you to not forget your story? It’s easy to have spiritual amnesia. You have an opportunity right now to be reminded of what God has done in your life, and you have people who want to help you grow in Christlikeness. Take advantage of this season of life!

How to not forget your keys… explode whatever you sit it on… now TILE…

Look out and see the dangers that surround.

vs. 6-7 - Sounds like Joshua 1.

vs. 11 - diligently watch and love the Lord your God who has fought for you.

Pay attention to your faith because it is easy to be pulled away. Don’t forget what God has called you to.

For Israel, idolatry would be a constant issue - idolatry is when you give something in your life more devotion than you give God.

God wanted His people to be holy/separate/distinct. He wants the same thing for you.

What is trying to pull you away from God? The world telling you that faith in God is a foolish way to live. A real enemy pulling you away.

What will help you stay close to God? The habits you develop today will shape your tomorrow. Conviction, time in the Word, discipline in your faith… What’s your plan for spiritual growth?

Look in and see the sins that slow you down.

Are you growing complacent in your faith?

You know you are complacent when you are too easily satisfied with not walking with the Lord.

You know you are complacent when you make excuses for not walking with God.

You know you are complacent when you won’t listen to the counsel of others.

Are you constantly compromising your faith?

Complacency leads to sin - you turn from God and turn to trying to find satisfaction in rebelling against God.

Compromise: in a dating relationship, in how you choose friendships, in the way you talk, the things you choose to engage in, etc.

Israel constantly failed. They couldn’t keep their end of the covenant. God sent His Son who did for Israel what Israel could not do. He was faithful to obey His Father and then went to the cross to die as a sacrifice for sin. He died and rose again for you. Will you trust Him today?